Coal rose to 112 USD/T on July 11, 2025, up 0.90% from the previous day. Over the past month, Coal's price has risen 7.07%, but it is still 16.32% lower than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Coal - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on July of 2025.

It is forecast that the average price for hard coking coal in 2026 will be ***** nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton. Meanwhile, the average price for semi-soft coking coal is forecast to be ****** nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton that year.

Learn about coking coal futures and how they allow investors to speculate on the future price of coking coal. Discover the benefits and risks of trading these futures contracts and their role in hedging and price discovery in the coal industry.

Coking coal futures prices refer to the contracts traded on commodity exchanges for future delivery of coking coal. This article explains how the prices are influenced by various factors and the role of commodity exchanges in facilitating trading. It also discusses how traders and investors can take long and short positions, and the importance of monitoring factors influencing coking coal prices.

China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data was reported at 875.000 RMB/Ton in 13 May 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 876.500 RMB/Ton for 12 May 2025. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data is updated daily, averaging 1,253.500 RMB/Ton from Mar 2013 (Median) to 13 May 2025, with 2948 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3,781.500 RMB/Ton in 19 Oct 2021 and a record low of 499.000 RMB/Ton in 24 Nov 2015. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 4th Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Dalian Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Settlement Price: Daily.

Met coal futures are financial contracts that allow individuals and companies to speculate or hedge on the future price of metallurgical coal. Metallurgical coal, also known as coking coal, is a type of coal that is used in the steelmaking process. It has specific properties that make it suitable for the production of coke, which is used as a fuel and reducing agent in blast furnaces. Learn more about met coal futures and their role in managing price risk in the metallurgical coal market.

China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 3rd Month data was reported at 887.000 RMB/Ton in Apr 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,001.500 RMB/Ton for Mar 2025. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 3rd Month data is updated monthly, averaging 1,268.750 RMB/Ton from Mar 2013 (Median) to Apr 2025, with 146 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3,528.500 RMB/Ton in Sep 2021 and a record low of 542.500 RMB/Ton in Nov 2015. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 3rd Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Dalian Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Settlement Price.

Metallurgical coal futures allow investors to speculate on the future price of metallurgical coal. This article explores the key features of these futures contracts, the market participants involved, and the risks and benefits associated with trading them.

China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 5th Month data was reported at 876.000 RMB/Ton in 13 May 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 878.000 RMB/Ton for 12 May 2025. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 5th Month data is updated daily, averaging 1,246.250 RMB/Ton from Mar 2013 (Median) to 13 May 2025, with 2948 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3,682.500 RMB/Ton in 19 Oct 2021 and a record low of 490.500 RMB/Ton in 24 Nov 2015. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 5th Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Dalian Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Settlement Price: Daily.

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Metallurgical Coal Market Size 2025-2029

The metallurgical coal market size is forecast to increase by USD 99.6 billion at a CAGR of 4.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for steel, a primary consumer of metallurgical coal. This trend is particularly prominent in regions with robust industrial sectors, such as Asia Pacific. Another key driver is the rise of smart city projects, which require substantial amounts of steel and consequently, metallurgical coal. However, the market is not without challenges. The volatility in prices of metallurgical coal, influenced by supply and demand dynamics and geopolitical factors, poses a significant risk for market participants.
Companies seeking to capitalize on the opportunities presented by this market must stay abreast of price fluctuations and adopt strategic sourcing and pricing strategies. Additionally, investments in technological advancements, such as automation and mechanization, can help improve operational efficiency and reduce costs. Overall, the market offers substantial growth potential for companies able to navigate the price volatility and adapt to evolving market conditions.

What will be the Size of the Metallurgical Coal Market during the forecast period?

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The market encompasses the production and trade of coal used primarily in steel manufacturing. This market exhibits dynamic behavior, influenced by various factors. High-sulphur utilization and medium-ash applications in iron ore smelting remain significant drivers, while price fluctuations in thermal coal markets can impact metallurgical coal demand. Environmental concerns, including air pollution and mining safety, necessitate continued innovation in mining industry practices and technologies. Mining resources and reserves, mining sustainability, and mining equipment automation are essential considerations for market participants. Steel industry outlook, infrastructure development, and sustainable infrastructure projects, such as bridge construction and commercial space development, shape demand for metallurgical coal.
Renewable energy alternatives and sustainable mining practices are gaining traction, potentially impacting the market's future direction. Mining project management, equipment maintenance, and mining investment are crucial elements in the metallurgical coal supply chain. Steel production technology advancements and iron ore smelting processes continue to evolve, influencing the market's size and direction. The transportation and logistics sector plays a vital role in delivering coal to consumers, ensuring efficient and cost-effective solutions. Mining industry outlook remains positive, driven by the ongoing demand for steel and infrastructure development.

How is this Metallurgical Coal Industry segmented?

The metallurgical coal industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Application

  Steel making
  Non-steel making


Type

  Hard coking coals
  Semi-soft coking coals
  Pulverized coal injection
  Medium Coking Coal


End-User

  Iron and Steel Industry
  Chemical and Pharmaceutical
  Foundry Industry
  Non-Steel Production
  Power Industry


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India


  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Russia
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World

By Application Insights

The steel making segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Metallurgical coal plays a crucial role in steel manufacturing as it is the primary input for coke production in the blast furnace process and the electric arc furnace (EAF) route. Steel production, a key indicator of economic development, saw a 3.3% increase in global crude steel output to 145.5 million tons (Mt) in November 2023, according to the World Steel Association. Concurrently, the global apparent steel use per capita surpassed 200 kilograms, marking an over 10% rise. Both steel manufacturing processes, BF-BOF and EAF, necessitate metallurgical coal. While the former requires substantial volumes, the latter demands lower quantities.

The steel industry's growth is driven by infrastructure development, urbanization, and the increasing demand for construction, high-grade steel for various industries, and premium hard coking coal for medical applications. The market dynamics are influenced by factors such as coal quality standards, sustainable mining practices, carbon footprint reduction, and cost reduction through mining technology advancements and automation. Additionally, environmental degradation and air quality concerns have led to st

The global coal price index reached 138.87 index points in May 2025. This was a decrease compared to the previous month, which also reflected a fall in the overall fuel energy price index. The global coal index expresses trading of Australian and South African coal, as both countries are among the largest exporters of coal worldwide. How coal profited from the 2022 gas crunch Throughout 2022, coal prices saw a significant net increase. This was largely due to greater fuel and electricity demand as countries slowly exited more stringent coronavirus restrictions, as well as fallout from the Russia-Ukraine war. As many European countries moved to curtailing gas imports from Russia, coal became the alternative to fill the power supply gap, more than doubling the annual average price index between 2021 and 2022. Main coal traders and receivers Although China makes up by far the largest share of worldwide coal production, it is among those countries consuming the majority of its extracted raw materials domestically. In terms of exports, Indonesia, the world's third-largest coal producer, trades more coal than any other country, followed by Australia and Russia. Meanwhile, Japan, South Korea, and Germany are among the leading coal importers, as these countries rely heavily on coal for electricity and heat generation.

China Open Interest: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal data was reported at 454.049 Lot th in 09 May 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 418.835 Lot th for 08 May 2025. China Open Interest: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal data is updated daily, averaging 203.505 Lot th from Mar 2013 (Median) to 09 May 2025, with 2946 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 637.070 Lot th in 23 Oct 2013 and a record low of 32.823 Lot th in 28 Jan 2022. China Open Interest: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Dalian Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Open Position: Daily.

First, domestic prices were measured based on the Polish Power Coal Market Index for sales to professional and industrial energy (PSCM1). Since 2017, coal prices in Poland have been steadily increasing, reaching the highest price of ****** zloty/metric ton in the third quarter of 2023. Global coal prices were measured by the ARA index (based on the prices of futures contracts in the ports of Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp). The ARA index has fallen since the third quarter of 2018, closing the second quarter of 2020 at *** zloty/metric tons. In the fourth quarter of 2024, coal prices were lower on the global market than on the Polish market (considering the current USD/PLN exchange rate), reaching over *** zloty per metric ton.

Raw Coal Market Outlook

The global raw coal market size was valued at approximately $700 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around $930 billion by 2032, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.2%. This growth is driven by increasing energy demands and industrialization in emerging economies. The rising consumption of coal in power generation and steel production, coupled with advancements in coal mining technologies, are primary factors fueling the market's expansion. Additionally, the demand for raw coal in various industrial applications continues to grow, contributing significantly to the overall market size.

Several growth factors are propelling the raw coal market. Firstly, the robust demand for electricity in developing regions like Asia Pacific and Africa necessitates the use of thermal coal in power plants. Countries with rapid industrial growth, such as China and India, rely heavily on coal-fired power generation to meet their energy needs. Despite global shifts towards renewable energy, coal remains a critical energy source due to its availability and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, advancements in coal mining technologies have made coal extraction more efficient and environmentally sustainable, thus encouraging its use.

Secondly, the steel production industry significantly contributes to the demand for coking coal. Steel is an essential material in construction, automotive, and various other industries, and coking coal is a crucial input in the steelmaking process. Economic growth and urbanization in emerging markets drive infrastructure development and construction activities, thereby increasing the demand for steel. Consequently, the need for coking coal is expected to remain strong in the foreseeable future. Additionally, the development of new steel production technologies that rely on coal as a feedstock further supports market growth.

Another growth factor is the increasing application of coal in cement manufacturing. Coal is used as a primary fuel in cement kilns due to its high energy content. The construction industry's expansion, particularly in developing countries, leads to higher cement consumption, thereby driving the demand for coal. Moreover, the introduction of policies favoring domestic coal production in various countries aims to reduce reliance on imports, thus supporting local coal industries. These policies, coupled with investments in coal mining infrastructure, are expected to boost market growth.

In the realm of mineralogy, Coalingite is a rare mineral that might not be widely recognized but plays a niche role in the broader context of coal-related geology. Coalingite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of nickel-bearing ultramafic rocks. Its presence can provide insights into the geological processes that occur in coal-rich regions, particularly those involving nickel deposits. Understanding the formation and characteristics of Coalingite can be crucial for geologists studying the mineralogical composition of areas rich in coal and nickel, offering a deeper understanding of the environmental conditions that lead to its creation.

Regionally, Asia Pacific dominates the raw coal market, accounting for the largest share of global consumption. The region's extensive industrial base, rapid urbanization, and significant investments in infrastructure projects contribute to high coal demand. Additionally, the presence of major coal-producing countries like China, India, and Australia ensures a steady supply of raw coal to meet regional requirements. North America and Europe are also significant markets, although their growth rates are comparatively lower due to a gradual shift towards renewable energy sources and stringent environmental regulations. Nevertheless, coal remains a vital component in their energy mix and industrial processes.

Type Analysis

The raw coal market is segmented by type into coking coal, thermal coal, and others. Each type has distinct applications and demand drivers. Coking coal, also known as metallurgical coal, is primarily used in steel production. It has unique properties that make it suitable for use in blast furnaces, where it acts as a reducing agent to convert iron ore into steel. The demand for coking coal is closely tied to the steel industry's performance, which in turn depends on economic growth and infrastructure development. As global construction and manufacturing activities rise, the demand for coking coal is expected to follow

China Turnover: Volume: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal data was reported at 8,855.737 Lot th in Apr 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 6,584.739 Lot th for Mar 2025. China Turnover: Volume: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal data is updated monthly, averaging 3,987.033 Lot th from Mar 2013 (Median) to Apr 2025, with 146 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 18,378.892 Lot th in Apr 2016 and a record low of 622.872 Lot th in Feb 2015. China Turnover: Volume: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Dalian Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Turnover.

One of the leading economic industries in Australia, coal mining has contributed significantly to the local economy. In 2024, the price of Australian coal was around 136 U.S. dollars per metric ton. Coal market The contribution of the coal mining industry to Australia’s economy was valued in the billions of Australian dollars. Coal consumption is much lower than production in Australia, so most of the mined coal is exported. In fact, Australia exports the most coal by value out of any other country, with major export partners including China and India. Australia’s reliance on its mining exports may lead to potential problems, particularly if long-term demand drops due to emerging alternative fuel sources, climate action, and increased competition from other coal producing countries. The effect on the tens of thousands of Australian workers in the mining industry may have already been felt, with lower employment numbers recorded recently. Environmental impact Of late, the fugitive emissions from coal mining have come under fire due to their contribution to environmental pollution. In Australia, emissions from underground coal mines were projected to total 19 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2030. With a global focus on reducing air pollution and mitigating climate effects, the future of mining in Australia may not be as certain as it once was.

China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 2nd Month data was reported at 869.500 RMB/Ton in 13 May 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 866.000 RMB/Ton for 12 May 2025. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 2nd Month data is updated daily, averaging 1,266.750 RMB/Ton from Mar 2013 (Median) to 13 May 2025, with 2948 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3,896.500 RMB/Ton in 18 Oct 2021 and a record low of 530.000 RMB/Ton in 20 Jan 2016. China Settlement Price: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Coking Coal: 2nd Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Dalian Commodity Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Dalian Commodity Exchange: Commodity Futures: Settlement Price: Daily.

The global coal trading market, valued at $9.73 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by persistent demand from power generation sectors, particularly in developing economies undergoing rapid industrialization. While the transition to renewable energy sources is gaining momentum, the immediate future still sees significant reliance on coal for electricity production, especially in regions lacking robust renewable infrastructure. This dependence, coupled with a consistent supply from major coal-producing nations, fuels market expansion. The market is segmented by coal type (steam coal, coking coal, lignite) and trader type (importer, exporter), reflecting the diverse nature of the industry. Major players like Glencore, Vitol, Trafigura, and Mercuria dominate the global landscape, leveraging their established networks and logistical capabilities to secure and distribute coal efficiently. Regional variations exist, with Asia-Pacific (particularly China and India) representing substantial market shares due to their extensive energy needs. However, stricter environmental regulations in certain regions, coupled with increasing carbon taxes and a growing focus on sustainable energy, present challenges to sustained growth. The 4.68% CAGR projected through 2033 suggests a continuous, albeit potentially moderating, expansion of the market, contingent upon the pace of global energy transition and geopolitical factors affecting supply chains. Growth will be further shaped by advancements in coal mining technologies, increasing efficiency, and efforts to minimize the environmental footprint associated with coal extraction and transportation. The market's future trajectory hinges on a complex interplay of factors. While the demand for coal remains robust in many regions, its long-term outlook is increasingly uncertain due to the global shift towards decarbonization. This necessitates a cautious approach by market participants, demanding strategic diversification and investments in sustainable energy alternatives. The projected CAGR reflects a balance between continued near-term demand and the anticipated long-term decline associated with decarbonization efforts. The competitive landscape remains dynamic, with existing players striving for market share dominance while facing pressure from emerging players and the increasing need for sustainable practices within the industry. Future growth will be largely influenced by government policies, technological innovation, and the pace of global efforts toward a cleaner energy future. Recent developments include: February 2022: Russia and China announced the development of an intergovernmental agreement on the supply of coal in the amount of 100 million tons. According to the government of Russia, the Asia-Pacific region has a significant market for coal till 2030. The countries have started working on the agreement., January 2022: Adani announced it won a contract to supply coal to NTPC, India’s state-owned electricity generator. The company will provide 1 million tons of coal to various power plants.. Key drivers for this market are: 4., Increasing Demand for Coal Based Power Generation Sector4.; Ease of Availability of Coal for Various Sectors, Such as Transport, Residential, Commercial and Others. Potential restraints include: 4., Increasing Demand for Coal Based Power Generation Sector4.; Ease of Availability of Coal for Various Sectors, Such as Transport, Residential, Commercial and Others. Notable trends are: Importer and Exporter to Maintain an Equal Share in the Market.

China's coking coal prices fell by $4/t due to surplus production, impacting imports and leading to stable demand from coke plants. Future price hikes are expected.

Coal mined by global coal mining companies has played a vital role in the world's ability to generate electricity and manufacture steel. Coal's position in global electricity markets stems from its relative accessibility, affordability and distribution across the globe. China, Indonesia, the United States and India are the world's largest coal producers. These countries are expected to retain their positions in the foreseeable future. The period started off shaky since it was the start of the pandemic, and revenue dipped as steel production and energy generation sunk. As the economy recovered, global coal prices spiked in 2021 and 2022, which allowed miners to benefit tremendously in revenue and profitability. These gains were short-lived as revenue crept back down from 2023 to 2025, as supply chain issues sorted out and prices normalized. Overall, industry revenue has grown at a CAGR of 20.1% over the past five years, reaching $1.6 trillion by 2025, including a 3.0% dip in 2025 alone. Environmental concerns prompted many countries to seek ways to transition away from coal-powered electricity generation, thereby boosting capacity for renewable and nonrenewable energy sources like wind, solar and natural gas. Many steel producers have switched to electric arc furnaces, eliminating the need for coal in manufacturing. Even so, coal is still an essential piece of the global power generation ecosystem, as many developing nations have continued to boost the number of coal power plants. Through 2029, the need for coal will drop. Most countries with developed and developing economies will continue to transition their energy generation towards renewable sources. This will cause many mines to shut down or consolidate, causing massive layoffs, primarily in China and India. Coking coal prices are set to sink, forcing global miners to adjust their prices, reducing revenue. Many established countries are also shutting down coal power plants or reconfiguring them into renewable or natural gas plants, lowering the need for coal. Nonetheless, coal is still inexpensive and very accessible to developing nations, which will keep the need for coal elevated. Overall, revenue is set to dip at a CAGR of 0.1% to $1.6 trillion in 2030.